Treatment

Treatment will depend on the joint involved and the extent of the injury. Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Options include:

Rest

You will need time to heal, but strict rest is rarely necessary. For most, you should continue to move as long as it does not increase pain. Go about your normal activities as much as you can tolerate.

Decrease Swelling

Elevation will help decrease swelling.

Compression of the area with an elastic bandage also helps to control swelling.

Ice and Heat

Ice may help decrease swelling and pain in the first few days after the injury.

After a couple of days, heat may help loosen tight or injured muscles. Wait for swelling to go away before using heat therapy.

Medications

Medication can help to relieve discomfort and swelling. Medications may include:

Over-the-counter pain medication, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen

Topical pain medication—creams or patches that are applied to the skin

Prescription pain relievers

Note:
Aspirin is not recommended for children with a current or recent viral infection. Check with your doctor before giving your child aspirin.

Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation exercises may be helpful after the sprain heals. Exercises can help to strengthen muscles and increase range of motion. Medical help is often needed at this stage. It is important to strengthen the muscles involving the joint where the ligament is. Those muscles need protection against further injury.

Prevention

It may be difficult to avoid sprains. Joints are at risk during athletic activities. To reduce your chance of getting a sprain:

Use proper techniques to help avoid awkward motions and missteps

Participate in flexibility, strength, and fitness training

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.